Hood and tractor equipped with hood

ABSTRACT

A hood of a tractor including a front grill, a light unit, and an upper cover is provided with a center pillar. The front grill is attached to the center pillar, the light unit is attached to the front grill, and the upper cover is supported by the center pillar. The hood is further provided with a side frame and a lower cover, where the side frame is attached to the center pillar, and the lower cover is attached to at least the upper cover and the side frame.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is the U.S. national stage of application No. PCT/JP2015/067837, filed on Jun. 22, 2015. Priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(a) and 35 U.S.C. § 365(b) is claimed from Japanese Application No. 2014-135325, filed Jun. 30, 2014; Japanese Application No. 2014-135326, filed Jun. 30, 2014; Japanese Application No. 2014-135327, filed Jun. 30, 2014; and Japanese Application No. 2014-135328, filed Jun. 30, 2014, the disclosures of which are also incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a hood and a tractor equipped with a hood.

BACKGROUND ART

Conventionally, a tractor used in farmland is known (for example, see the Patent Literature 1). In a front part of the tractor, a hood is provided, and an engine is housed in the hood. The hood has a front grill.

Near the front grill, a light unit is arranged. Near the light unit, an upper cover and a lower cover are arranged. Accordingly, in the hood, overall assembly accuracy may be reduced by gap of attachment positions of these components. Therefore, the hood in which the attachment positions of the components are hard to be shifted so as to improve the assembly accuracy is desired. For realizing fine operability, the hood whose durability is improved further is desired.

Additionally, since the tractor travels on a muddy ground and a sloping ground, a travel direction tends to be shifted. Accordingly, an operator must operate the tractor to a destination while collecting the gap of the travel direction. However, when a target route is along a ridge, agricultural products may be trodden because of the slight gap of the travel direction. Accordingly, the tractor in which the travel direction can be determined easily and the gap of the travel direction can be collected suitably is desired.

PRIOR ART REFERENCE Patent Literature

Patent Literature 1: the Japanese Patent Laid Open Gazette 2010-163036

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION Problems to be Solved by the Invention

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a hood in which attachment positions of components are hard to be shifted as to improve assembly accuracy. The purpose is to provide the hood whose rigidity is improved further so as to realize fine operability. Additionally, the purpose is to provide a tractor in which a travel direction can be determined easily and a gap of the travel direction can be collected suitably. As a result, the purpose is to provide the tractor which can be operated easily.

Means for Solving the Problems

The first mode of the present invention is a hood of a tractor having a front grill, a light unit, and an upper cover, wherein a center pillar is provided, the front grill is attached to the center pillar, the light unit is attached to the front grill, and the upper cover is supported by the center pillar.

The second mode of the present invention is the hood according to the first mode wherein a side frame and a lower cover are provided, the side frame is attached to the center pillar, and wherein the lower cover is attached to at least the upper cover and the side frame.

The third mode of the present invention is the hood according to the first or second mode wherein a middle member fixed to a reverse side of a middle part of the upper cover, an end member fixed to a reverse side of a rear end of the upper cover, a center beam, and a hood hinge are provided, the center beam connects the middle member to the end member, and the hood hinge is attached to the end member and the center beam.

The fourth mode of the present invention is the hood according to the third mode wherein a weather strip is provided, and the weather strip is attached to the end member and contacts an air cut plate arranged near the end member.

The fifth mode of the present invention is the hood according to the third mode wherein a weather strip and a support plate fixed to the reverse side of the rear end of the upper cover are provided, and the weather strip is attached to the support plate and contacts an air cut plate arranged near the support plate.

The sixth mode of the present invention is the hood according to the first or second mode wherein a center mark arranged in an upper part of the upper cover is provided, the center mark is arranged along a visual line of an operator looking a target route, and a ridgeline of the center mark draws an arc expanded upward.

The seventh mode of the present invention is the hood according to the sixth mode wherein an opening is provided in the upper cover, a design panel closing the opening is provided, and the center mark is fixed to the design panel.

The eighth mode of the present invention is a tractor equipped with the hood according to one of first to seventh modes.

Effect of the Invention

The present invention brings the following effects.

According to the first mode of the present invention, the hood according to the present invention includes the front grill, the light unit, and the upper cover. Furthermore, the hood according to the present invention includes the center pillar. The front grill is attached to the center pillar, the light unit is attached to the front grill, and the upper cover is supported by the center pillar. Accordingly, in the hood, an attachment position of the front grill to the center pillar is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved. An attachment position of the light unit to the center pillar is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved. Furthermore, an attachment position of the upper cover to the center pillar is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved.

According to the second mode of the present invention, the hood according to the present invention has the side frame and the lower cover. The side frame is attached to the center pillar, and wherein the lower cover is attached to at least the upper cover and the side frame. Accordingly, in the hood, an attachment position of the lower cover to the center pillar is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved.

According to the third mode of the present invention, the hood according to the present invention has the middle member fixed to a reverse side of a middle part of the upper cover, the end member fixed to a reverse side of a rear end of the upper cover, the center beam, and the hood hinge. The center beam connects the middle member to the end member, and the hood hinge is attached to the end member and the center beam. Accordingly, in the hood, the rigidity of the upper cover improved, and stress caused by moment is not accumulated to the vicinity of the end member and is dispersed to the vicinity of the middle member, whereby the hood is not distorted.

According to the fourth mode of the present invention, the hood according to the present invention has the weather strip. The weather strip is attached to the end member and contacts the air cut plate arranged near the end member. Accordingly, in the hood, an attachment position of the weather strip is clear and attachment work of the weather strip is easy. When an operator looks into an inner side of the upper cover, the engine and the like cannot be cannot be seen because they are covered by the weather strip, whereby fine appearance of the hood can be realized.

According to the fifth mode of the present invention, the hood according to the present invention has the weather strip and the support plate fixed to the reverse side of the rear end of the upper cover. The weather strip is attached to the support plate and contacts the air cut plate arranged near the support plate. Accordingly, in the hood, an attachment position of the weather strip is clear and attachment work of the weather strip is easy. When an operator looks into an inner side of the upper cover, the engine and the like cannot be cannot be seen because they are covered by the weather strip, whereby fine appearance of the hood can be realized.

According to the sixth mode of the present invention, the hood according to the present invention has the center mark arranged in an upper part of the upper cover. The center mark is arranged along the visual line of the operator looking the target route, and the ridgeline of the center mark draws the arc expanded upward. Accordingly, in the tractor having the hood, the target route can be grasped easily on the extension of the center mark regardless of height of the operator.

According to the seventh mode of the present invention, in the hood according to the present invention, the opening is provided in the upper cover, and the design panel closing the opening is provided. The center mark is fixed to the design panel. Accordingly, in the tractor having the hood, since the center mark serves as a handle, detachment/attachment work of the design panel is easy.

According to the eighth mode of the present invention, the tractor according to the present invention has the hood according to one of first to seventh modes. Accordingly, the tractor is more advantageous than the conventional tractor in respect of the above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a drawing of a tractor.

FIG. 2 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow X in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Y in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Z in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a drawing of a hood.

FIG. 6 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow X in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Y in FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Z in FIG. 5.

FIG. 9 is a drawing of a center mark and a design panel.

FIG. 10 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow X in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Yin FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Z in FIG. 9.

FIG. 13 is a drawing of a visual field of an operator.

FIG. 14 is a drawing of a visual line of the operator.

FIG. 15 is a drawing of detachment/attachment work of the design panel.

FIG. 16 is a drawing of flow of air in a hood.

FIG. 17 is a drawing of an assembly process of the hood.

FIG. 18 is a drawing of an assembly process of the hood.

FIG. 19 is a drawing of an assembly process of the hood.

FIG. 20 is a drawing of an assembly process of the hood.

FIG. 21 is a drawing of an assembly process of the hood.

FIG. 22 is a drawing of an assembly process of the hood.

FIG. 23 is a drawing of an assembly process of the hood.

FIG. 24 is a drawing of an assembly process of the hood.

FIG. 25 is a drawing of an assembly process of the hood.

FIG. 26 is a drawing of the state in which the hood is completed.

FIG. 27 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow M in FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow N in FIG. 26.

FIG. 29 is an arrow sectional view of the line A-A in FIG. 28.

FIG. 30 is a drawing of the state in which the hood is opened.

FIG. 31 is a drawing of the state in which the hood is closed.

FIG. 32 is a drawing in which an area P in FIG. 31 is expanded.

FIG. 33 is a drawing of a spectacle in which the closed hood is looked from a cabin.

FIGS. 34A and 34B are drawings of two lower covers.

FIG. 35 is a drawing of an attachment process of the lower cover.

FIG. 36 is a drawing of an attachment process of the lower cover.

FIGS. 37A and 37B are drawings of the state in which the hoods are completed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Technical thought of the present invention can be used for all agricultural machine vehicles and construction machine vehicles.

Firstly, a tractor 1 is explained.

FIG. 1 shows the tractor 1. FIG. 2 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow X in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Y in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Z in FIG. 1. In the drawings, longitudinal, lateral and vertical directions of the tractor 1 are shown.

The tractor 1 includes mainly a chassis frame 11, an engine 12, a transmission 13, a front axle 14 and a rear axle 15. In the tractor 1, in addition to a cabin 16 which protects an operator from a rainstorm, a hood 2 which protects the engine 12 from a rainstorm is provided.

The chassis frame 11 constitutes a frame of the tractor 1. The engine 12 and the like explained below are attached to the chassis frame 11.

The engine 12 exchanges heat energy obtained by combustion of fuel into kinetic energy. Namely, the engine 12 generates rotation power by making the fuel burn. The engine 12 is connected to a control device. When an operator operates an accelerator pedal, the control device changes driving state of the engine 12 corresponding to the operation. In the engine 12, an exhaust purification device 12E is provided. The exhaust purification device 12E oxidizes particle (PM), carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbon (HC) contained in exhaust gas.

The transmission 13 transmits the rotation power of the engine 12 to the front axle 14 and the rear axle 15. The rotation power of the engine 12 is inputted to the transmission 13 via a connection mechanism. The transmission 13 has a stepless transmission. When an operator operates a shift lever, operation state of the transmission 13 is changed corresponding to the operation.

The front axle 14 transmits the rotation power of the engine 12 to front wheels 141. The rotation power of the engine 12 is inputted to the front axle 14 via the transmission 13. The front axle 14 is juxtaposed with a steering device. When an operator operates a steering wheel, the steering device changes a steering angle of the front wheels 141 corresponding to the operation.

The rear axle 15 transmits the rotation power of the engine 12 to rear wheels 151. The rotation power of the engine 12 is inputted to the rear axle 15 via the transmission 13. A PTO output device is provided in the rear axle 15. The PTO output device inputs the rotation power to a led work machine when an operator operates a switch.

Next, the hood 2 is explained.

FIG. 5 shows the hood 2. FIG. 6 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow X in FIG. 5, and FIG. 7 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Y in FIG. 5. FIG. 8 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Z in FIG. 5. In the drawings, the longitudinal, lateral and vertical directions of the tractor 1 are shown.

The hood 2 includes mainly an upper cover 21 and a pair of lower covers 22. In a front surface of the hood 2, a front grill 23 is provided.

The upper cover 21 is an exterior member covering an upper part of the engine 12. The upper cover 21 rises up from a front end point Ua thereof and is bent downward from a middle point Ub. Behind an opening 21 h, the upper cover 21 curves gradually to a rear end point Uc. Furthermore, the upper cover 21 expands sideward from the front end point Ua and curves gradually so that side end points Uw are maximum width points. In the upper cover 21, a character line C1 is formed from the front end point Ua to the middle point Ub, and character lines C2 are formed from the middle point Ub so as to expand sideward. The opening 21 h is formed substantially wedge-like between the two character lines C2. The opening 21 h is closed by a design panel 41.

The lower cover 22 is an exterior member covering a side part of the engine 12. The lower cover 22 expands sideward from a front end point La thereof and curves gradually so that side end points Lw are maximum width points. Furthermore, whereas an upper half part of the lower cover 22 is based on a curved surface expanded outward, a lower half part of the lower cover 22 is based on a curved surface depressed inward. In the lower cover 22, character lines C3 which pass from the front end point La through the side end points Lw are formed. Openings 22 ha are formed substantially lozenge-like above the character lines C3, and openings 22 hb are formed substantially lozenge-like below the character lines C3. An upper front part of the lower cover 22 is formed corresponding to a shape of a high-beam light unit 24. A lower front part of the lower cover 22 is formed corresponding to a shape of a low-beam light unit 25.

The front grill 23 is an exterior member covering a front part of the engine 12. The front grill 23 has a structure in which a metal mesh 232 is stuck on a grill frame 231. The grill frame 231 has beam parts 231L and 231R extended upward aslant from a certain point Sp thereof and a pillar part 231P extended downward from the certain point Sp. The beam parts 231L and 231R and the pillar part 231P become thin gradually as they separate from the certain point Sp, and are connected to a frame part 231E The metal mesh 232 covers three parts which includes a range surrounded by the beam parts 231L and 231R and the frame part 231G, a range surrounded by the beam part 231L, the pillar part 231P and the frame part 231G, and a range surrounded by the beam part 231R, the pillar part 231P and the frame part 231G In addition, both sides of an upper part of the front grill 23 are formed corresponding to the shape of the high-beam lamp lens 43 discussed later. Both sides of a lower part of the front grill 23 are formed corresponding to the shape of the low-beam light unit 25.

Furthermore, the hood 2 has below features. A center mark 31 which is substantially I-like shaped is attached to an upper part of the upper cover 21 so as to cross the opening 21 h longitudinally. A symbol mark 32 which is substantially Y-like shaped is arranged in a front surface of the front grill 23 so as to cover the beam parts 231L and 231R and the pillar part 231P. Glossy plating is applied to the center mark 31 and the symbol mark 32. Accordingly, an outstanding design is introduced and a strong impression is made on a third person.

Next, the center mark 31 and the design panel 41 are described in detail.

FIG. 9 shows the center mark 31 and the design panel 41. FIG. 10 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow X in FIG. 9, and FIG. 11 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Y in FIG. 9. FIG. 12 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow Z in FIG. 9. In the drawings, the longitudinal, lateral and vertical directions of the tractor 1 are shown.

In the tractor 1, the center mark 31 is fixed to the design panel 41. In detail, the center mark 31 is fixed to the design panel 41 so that a centerline 31L of the center mark 31 overlaps a centerline 41L of the design panel 41 (see FIG. 12). Accordingly, when the design panel 41 is attached to a predetermined position, the center mark 31 overlaps a centerline 2L of the hood 2 (see FIG. 8). As a result, the center mark 31 overlaps a centerline 1L of the tractor 1 (see FIG. 4).

In the tractor 1, the center mark 31 is a metal formed part. The center mark 31 draws a curve which is expanded upward from a front end point Ca thereof and becomes loose gradually to a middle point Cb. Behind the middle point Cb, the center mark 31 draws a circular curve going downward to a rear end point Cc. Namely, a ridgeline 31R from the front end point Ca to the rear end point Cc draws an arc expanded upward. The ridgeline 31R is formed by two curved surfaces 31Sa and 31Sb which go down leftward and rightward from the ridgeline 31R. Accordingly, when viewed from an inside of the cabin 16, the ridgeline 31R is sharpened upward (see FIG. 13).

In the tractor 1, the design panel 41 is a resin formed part. The design panel 41 draws a curve which is expanded upward from a front end point Da thereof and becomes loose gradually to a middle point Db. Furthermore, the design panel 41 has a wedge-like shape which is expanded sideward from the front end point Da thereof. In a back side of the design panel 41, a plurality of hooking claws 41C are provided. Accordingly, the design panel 41 is attached while the hooking claws 41C are hooked on the opening 21 h of the upper cover 21. Additionally, in the design panel 41, a plurality of through holes 41 h are provided. Accordingly, the design panel 41 permits air to flow from an inside of the hood 2 to the outside or from the outside to the inside thereof (see FIG. 16).

Next, function of the center mark 31 is explained.

FIG. 13 is a drawing of a visual field of an operator. FIG. 14 is a drawing of a visual line of the operator. A two-dot chain line DH shows the visual line of the tall operator, and a two-dot chain line DH shows the visual line of the short operator.

As mentioned above, the center mark 31 is arranged so as to overlap the centerline 1L of the tractor 1. Accordingly, the center mark 31 always shows a travel direction of the tractor 1 to an operator. Therefore, the operator can determines the travel direction by making the center mark 31 overlap a target route Tr. Since the center mark 31 seems to be sharpened upward, the center mark 31 can be made overlap the target route Tr easily even when the target route Tr is narrow. For example, even when the target route Tr is a thin crevice between ridges r, the overlap operation can be performed easily.

When the center mark 31 is taken out of the target route Tr, an operator can recognize that the travel direction is shifted. In this case, the operator can correct the gap of the travel direction by making the center mark 31 overlap the target route Tr again. Since the center mark 31 seems to be sharpened upward, the center mark 31 can be recognized being taken out easily even when the target route Tr is narrow. For example, even when the target route Tr is the thin crevice between the ridges r, the center mark 31 can be recognized being taken out easily.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the center mark 31 arranged in the upper part of the upper cover 21. The center mark 31 serves as a sight for an operator to determine the travel direction. Accordingly, the tractor 1 having the hood 2 can determine the travel direction easily and correct the gap of the travel direction suitably. Accordingly, the tractor 1 can be operated easily.

Additionally, in the tractor 1, an operator rides on an extension of the center mark 31. Accordingly, it can be said that the center mark 31 is arranged along the visual line of the operator looking the target route Tr. Therefore, the operator can look the center mark 31 in a natural posture. Since the ridgeline 31R draws an arc expanded upward, the center mark 31 is looked to be sharpened upward even when an angle at which the center mark 31 is looked is different. Concretely, the center mark 31 is looked to be sharpened with a point Ra as a peak by the tall operator, and is looked to be sharpened with a point Rb as the peak by the short operator.

As the above, the center mark 31 is arranged along the visual line of the operator looking the target route Tr. The ridgeline 31R of the center mark 31 draws the arc expanded upward. Accordingly, in the tractor 1 having the hood 2, the target route Tr can be grasped easily on the extension of the center mark 31 regardless of height of the operator.

Next, another function of the center mark 31 is explained.

FIG. 15 shows detachment/attachment work of the design panel 41. The detachment/attachment work means attachment work at the time of production, and detachment work and attachment work at the time of maintenance.

As mentioned above, the center mark 31 is fixed to the design panel 41. The design panel 41 is attached while the hooking claws 41C are hooked on the opening 21 h of the upper cover 21. Accordingly, the center mark 31 and the design panel 41 can be detached from/attached to the upper cover 21 integrally. In this case, a worker can perform the detachment/attachment work by grasping the center mark 31.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the design panel 41 closing the opening 21 h. The center mark 31 is fixed to the design panel 41. Accordingly, in the tractor 1 having the hood 2, since the center mark 31 serves as a handle, the detachment/attachment work of the design panel 41 is easy.

Additionally, in the tractor 1 having the hood 2, since the center mark 31 serves as the handle, work efficiency at the time of the production and the maintenance is improved. When the center mark 31 or the design panel 41 is broken, it can be exchanged easily. Furthermore, when the center mark 31 or the design panel 41 becomes dirty, it can be cleaned easily.

Next, function of the design panel 41 is explained.

FIG. 16 shows flow of air in the hood 2. Arrows Fa and Fb in the drawing shows flow of air supplied to the hood 2, and arrows Fc and Fd in the drawing shows flow of air discharged from the hood 2.

As mentioned above, the plurality of the through holes 41 h are provided in the design panel 41. Accordingly, the design panel 41 permits air to flow from the inside of the hood 2 to the outside or from the outside to the inside thereof. In the design panel 41, each of the through holes 41 h is a circular hole with a small diameter (a circular hole with a diameter of 2 mm). However, the through hole 41 h is not limited thereto and may be a square hole or a triangular hole for example. Number of the through holes 41 h may be one or more. Namely, any design panel 41 can be used through which air can flow.

As the above, the one or more through holes 41 h are provided in the design panel 41. Accordingly, in the tractor 1 having the hood 2, the design panel 41 serves as a ventilation passage, whereby heat of the engine 12 is hard to be accumulated.

Additionally, in the tractor 1 having the hood 2, since the through holes 41 h serve as the ventilation passage, heat balance characteristic of the engine 12 is improved. Accordingly, temperature of lubricating oil is kept proper so as to improve durability of the engine 12. Temperature of fuel is kept proper so as to prevent reduction of output of the engine 12. The design panel 41 is fastidious in design. Accordingly, an outstanding design is introduced and a strong impression is made on a third person.

Below, structure of the hood 2 is explained.

FIGS. 17 to 25 show assembly processes of the hood 2. FIG. 26 shows the state in which the hood 2 is completed. FIG. 27 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow M in FIG. 26, and FIG. 28 is a drawing from a direction of an arrow N in FIG. 26. Furthermore, FIG. 29 is an arrow sectional view of the line A-A in FIG. 28. Herein, only main processes are explained. The order of the processes is not limited.

In a first process, a side frame 52 and an under spacer 53 are attached to a center pillar 51 (see FIG. 17). In detail, in the process, the side frame 52 is attached to the center pillar 51, and the under spacer 53 is attached to the side frame 52. The side frame 52 is fixed to a lower end of the center pillar 51 by bolts 52B. The under spacer 53 is fixed to a lower surface of the side frame 52 by a bolt 53B.

In a second process, the front grill 23 and the symbol mark 32 are attached to a module M1 assembled in the first process (see FIG. 18). In detail, in the process, the front grill 23 is attached to the center pillar 51, and the symbol mark 32 is attached to the front grill 23. The front grill 23 is fixed to a front surface of the center pillar 51 by bolts 23B. The symbol mark 32 is fixed to a front surface of the front grill 23 by bolts 32B.

In a third process, the high-beam light unit 24 and the low-beam light unit 25 are attached to a module M2 assembled in the second process (see FIG. 19). In detail, in the process, the high-beam light unit 24 is attached to the front grill 23, and the low-beam light unit 25 is attached to the front grill 23. The high-beam light unit 24 is fixed to a reverse side surface of the front grill 23 by bolts 24B. The low-beam light unit 25 is fixed to the reverse side surface of the front grill 23 by a bolt 25B. The low-beam light unit 25 is fixed to a rear surface of the high-beam light unit 24 by screws 25S.

In a fourth process, a tip member 61, a middle member 62 and an end member 63 are attached to the upper cover 21 (see FIG. 20). In detail, in the process, the tip member 61 is attached to the upper cover 21, the middle member 62 is attached to the upper cover 21, and the end member 63 is attached to the upper cover 21. The tip member 61 is fixed to a reverse side surface of a tip part of the upper cover 21 by an adhesive. The middle member 62 is fixed to a reverse side surface of a middle part of the upper cover 21 by an adhesive and fasteners 62F (see FIG. 29). The end member 63 is fixed to a reverse side surface of a rear end part of the upper cover 21 by an adhesive and fasteners 63F (see FIG. 29). A center beam 631 is welded previously to the end member 63. The center beam 631 is fixed to a lower surface of the middle member 62 by bolts 631B.

In a fifth process, a support plate 64 and a hood hinge 65 are attached to a module M4 assembled in the fourth process (see FIG. 21). In detail, in the process, the support plate 64 is attached to the upper cover 21, and the hood hinge 65 is attached to the end member 63. The support plate 64 is fixed to the reverse side surface of the rear end part of the upper cover 21 by an adhesive and a fastener 64F (see FIG. 27). The hood hinge 65 is fixed to a lower surface of the end member 63 by bolts 65B. The hood hinge 65 is fixed to a lower surface of the center beam 631 by the bolts 65B.

In a sixth process, a module M3 assembled in the third process is combined with a module M5 assembled in the fifth process (see FIG. 22). In detail, in the process, the center pillar 51 constituting the module M3 is connected to the tip member 61 constituting the module M5 so as to configure one module M6. The center pillar 51 is connected to the tip member 61 by a bolt 51B.

In a seventh process, the lower cover 22 is attached to the module M6 assembled in the sixth process (see FIG. 23). In detail, in the process, the lower cover 22 is attached to the upper cover 21, the side frame 52, the end member 63 and the like. The lower cover 22 is fixed to the upper cover 21, the side frame 52 and the end member 63 by fasteners 22F. The lower cover 22 is fixed to the high-beam light unit 24 by a nut 22N (see FIG. 29). The lower cover 22 is fixed to the low-beam light unit 25 by the fasteners 22F (see FIG. 29). Furthermore, the lower cover 22 is fixed to the under spacer 53 by the fasteners 22F (see FIGS. 28 and 29).

In an eighth process, weather strips 66, 67, 68 and 69 are attached to a module M7 assembled in the seventh process (see FIG. 24). In detail, in the process, the weather strips 66, 67, 68 and 69 are attached to the under spacer 53, the lower cover 22, the end member 63 and the like. The weather strip 66 is engaged with lower sides of the under spacer 53 and the lower cover 22. The weather strip 67 is engaged with a rib in an inner side of the lower cover 22. Furthermore, the weather strip 68 is engaged with a rear side of the end member 63 (only on the right of the hood hinge 65). The weather strip 69 is engaged with a rear side of the support plate 64 (only on the left of the hood hinge 65).

In a ninth process, the design panel 41 is attached to a module M8 assembled in the eighth process (see FIG. 25). In detail, in the process, the design panel 41 is attached to the opening 21 h of the upper cover 21. As mentioned above, the design panel 41 is attached while the hooking claws 41C are hooked on the opening 21 h of the upper cover 21. The center mark 31 is fixed previously to the design panel 41.

As the above, the hood 2 is completed (see FIGS. 26, 27, 28 and 29).

Next, features in the structure of the hood 2 are described.

As a first feature, the hood 2 has the center pillar 51. The center pillar 51 serves as an attachment standard of the members or the group of the members (in the above, referred to as “modules”) constituting the hood 2. The side frame 52 and the like explained below are attached to the center pillar 51 directly or indirectly.

As a second feature, the side frame 52 is attached to the center pillar 51 (see FIG. 17). Namely, the side frame 52 is attached directly to the center pillar 51 which is the attachment standard.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the side frame 52. The side frame 52 is attached to the center pillar 51. Accordingly, in the hood 2, an attachment position of the side frame 52 to the center pillar 51 is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved.

As a third feature, the under spacer 53 is attached to the side frame 52 (see FIG. 17). In detail, in the hood 2, the side frame 52 is attached to the center pillar 51 which is the attachment standard. The under spacer 53 is attached to the side frame 52. Namely, the under spacer 53 is attached indirectly to the center pillar 51 which is the attachment standard.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the under spacer 53. The under spacer 53 is attached to the side frame 52. Accordingly, in the hood 2, an attachment position of the under spacer 53 to the side frame 52 is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved. As a result, the attachment position of the under spacer 53 to the center pillar 51 is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved. The under spacer 53 may alternatively be attached directly to the center pillar 51. In this case, similar effect is obtained.

As a fourth feature, the front grill 23 is attached to the center pillar 51 (see FIG. 18). Namely, the front grill 23 is attached directly to the center pillar 51 which is the attachment standard.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the front grill 23. The front grill 23 is attached to the center pillar 51. Accordingly, in the hood 2, the attachment position of the front grill 23 to the center pillar 51 is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved.

As a fifth feature, the high-beam light unit 24 and the low-beam light unit 25 are attached to the front grill 23 (see FIG. 19). In detail, in the hood 2, the front grill 23 is attached to the center pillar 51 which is the attachment standard. The high-beam light unit 24 and the low-beam light unit 25 are attached to the front grill 23. Namely, the high-beam light unit 24 and the low-beam light unit 25 are attached indirectly to the center pillar 51 which is the attachment standard.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the light units (the high-beam light unit 24 and the low-beam light unit 25). The light units (24 and 25) are attached to the front grill 23. Accordingly, in the hood 2, the attachment position of the light units (24 and 25) to the front grill 23 is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved. As a result, the attachment position of the light units (24 and 25) to the center pillar 51 is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved. The light units (24 and 25) may alternatively be attached directly to the center pillar 51. In this case, similar effect is obtained.

As a sixth feature, the upper cover 21 is supported by the center pillar 51 (see FIG. 22). Namely, the upper cover 21 is supported directly by the center pillar 51 which is the attachment standard.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the upper cover 21. The upper cover 21 is supported by the center pillar 51. Accordingly, in the hood 2, the attachment position of the upper cover 21 to the center pillar 51 is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved.

As a seventh feature, the lower cover 22 is attached to at least the upper cover 21 and the side frame 52 (see FIG. 23). In detail, in the hood 2, the upper cover 21 is supported by the center pillar 51 which is the attachment standard. The side frame 52 is attached to the center pillar 51 which is the attachment standard. The lower cover 22 is attached to at least the upper cover 21 and the side frame 52. Namely, the lower cover 22 is attached indirectly to the center pillar 51 which is the attachment standard.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the lower cover 22. The lower cover 22 is attached to at least the upper cover 21 and the side frame 52. Accordingly, in the hood 2, the attachment position of the lower cover 22 to the upper cover 21 and the side frame 52 is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved. As a result, the attachment position of the lower cover 22 to the center pillar 51 is hard to be shifted, whereby assembly accuracy is improved. In the hood 2, the lower cover 22 is also attached to the light units (24 and 25) and the under spacer 53. Accordingly, rigidity of the lower cover 22 is improved.

A structure making the hood 2 openable/closable is explained below.

FIG. 30 shows the state in which the hood 2 is opened. FIG. 31 shows the state in which the hood 2 is closed. FIG. 32 is a drawing in which an area P in FIG. 31 is expanded. FIG. 33 shows a spectacle in which the closed hood 2 is looked by an operator.

Inside the hood 2, an air cut plate 26 is housed. The air cut plate 26 is arranged so as to close a rear end of the hood 2, thereby preventing heat and noise of the engine 12 from being transmitted to the cabin 16. The air cut plate 26 supports the hood hinge 65.

Furthermore, inside the hood 2, a side beam 27 is housed. The side beam 27 is arranged perpendicularly to the air cut plate 26 so as to prevent a heat exchanger 12R of the engine 12 from vibrating. The side beam 27 supports a heat insulation plate 12H.

Additionally, inside the hood 2, a gas spring 28 is housed. One of ends of the gas spring 28 is attached to the side beam 27. The other end of the gas spring 28 is attached to the middle member 62. The gas spring 28 biases the middle member 62 upward. Accordingly, the hood 2 can be opened by being pushed up lightly.

The upper cover 21 is applied thereon with a moment M1 so as to be rotated downward by prudence (see FIG. 30). Oppositely, the upper cover 21 is applied thereon with a moment M2 so as to be rotated upward by the gas spring 28 (see FIG. 30). Accordingly, rigidity enough not to be distorted by the two opposite moments M1 and M2 is required in the upper cover 21. It is known that when the rigidity of the upper cover 21, fine operability cannot be obtained. For example, the hood 2 vibrates fractionally when the hood 2 is closed, and tone quality at the time of closing the hood 2 worsens.

Next, structural characteristics of the hood 2 are explained.

As a first characteristic, the center beam 631 connects the middle member 62 to the end member 63 (see FIG. 20). Namely, one of ends of the center beam 631 is attached to the middle member 62, and the other end thereof is attached to the end member 63.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the center beam 631. The center beam 631 connects the middle member 62 to the end member 63. Accordingly, in the hood 2, the rigidity of the upper cover 21 is improved, whereby the hood 2 is not distorted. Furthermore, fine operability of the hood 2 can be obtained.

As a second characteristic, the hood hinge 65 is attached to the end member 63 and the center beam 631 (see FIG. 21). Namely, one of ends of the hood hinge 65 is attached to the end member 63, and the other end thereof is attached to the center beam 631.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the hood hinge 65. The hood hinge 65 is attached to the end member 63 and the center beam 631. Accordingly, in the hood 2, stress according to the moments M1 and M2 is not accumulated near the end member 63 and is dispersed near the middle member 62, whereby the hood 2 is not distorted.

As a third characteristic, the weather strip 68 is attached to the end member 63 and contacts the air cut plate 26 arranged near the end member 63 (see FIGS. 27 and 32). Namely, the weather strip 68 closes a gap between the end member 63 and the air cut plate 26 while being attached to the end member 63. Longitudinal positions of the air cut plate 26 at the right and left sides of the hood hinge 65 are different (see FIG. 27). When a part of the air cut plate 26 at the right side of the hood hinge 65 is referred to as “air cut plate 26R”, the weather strip 68 closes a gap between the end member 63 and the air cut plate 26R.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the weather strip 68. The weather strip 68 is attached to the end member 63 and contacts the air cut plate 26 (26R) arranged near the end member 63. Accordingly, in the hood 2, an attachment position of the weather strip 68 is clear and attachment work of the weather strip 68 is easy. When an operator looks into an inner side of the upper cover 21, the engine 12 and the like cannot be cannot be seen because they are covered by the weather strip 68, whereby fine appearance of the hood 2 can be realized (see FIG. 33).

Additionally, in the tractor 1 having the hood 2, by considering a shape of the weather strip 68 (by shortening the weather strip 68 so as to provide a gap intentionally or the like), air can passes through a predetermined position. Accordingly, the gap between the end member 63 and the air cut plate 26 (26R) serves as an air passage, whereby heat of the engine 12 is hard to be accumulated. In this case, in comparison with the case in which an air passage is provided in the upper cover 21, water and dust is harder to enter the inside of the hood 2.

As a fourth characteristic, the weather strip 69 is attached to the support plate 64 and contacts the air cut plate 26 arranged near the support plate 64 (see FIGS. 27 and 32). Namely, the weather strip 69 closes a gap between the support plate 64 and the air cut plate 26 while being attached to the support plate 64. The longitudinal positions of the air cut plate 26 at the right and left sides of the hood hinge 65 are different (see FIG. 27). When a part of the air cut plate 26 at the left side of the hood hinge 65 is referred to as “air cut plate 26L”, the weather strip 69 closes a gap between the end member 63 and the air cut plate 26L.

As the above, the hood 2 according to the present invention has the weather strip 69 and the support plate 64. The weather strip 69 is attached to the support plate 64 and contacts the air cut plate 26 (26L) arranged near the support plate 64. Accordingly, in the hood 2, an attachment position of the weather strip 69 is clear and attachment work of the weather strip 69 is easy. When an operator looks into an inner side of the upper cover 21, the engine 12 and the like cannot be cannot be seen because they are covered by the weather strip 69, whereby fine appearance of the hood 2 can be realized (see FIG. 33).

Additionally, in the tractor 1 having the hood 2, by considering a shape of the weather strip 69 (by shortening the weather strip 69 so as to provide a gap intentionally or the like), air can passes through a predetermined position. Accordingly, the gap between the support plate 64 and the air cut plate 26 (26L) serves as an air passage, whereby heat of the engine 12 is hard to be accumulated. In this case, in comparison with the case in which the air passage is provided in the upper cover 21, water and dust is harder to enter the inside of the hood 2.

A structure reducing cost of the hood 2 is explained below.

FIGS. 34A and 34B show two lower covers 22A and 22B. FIG. 35 shows an attachment process of the lower cover 22A, and FIG. 36 shows an attachment process of the lower cover 22B. FIGS. 37A and 37B show the state in which the hoods 2 are completed.

The lower cover 22 has a skirt part 22S extended downward. There are the lower cover 22 having the long skirt part 22S and the lower cover 22 having the short skirt part 22S. Herein, the lower cover 22 having the long skirt part 22S is referred to as “the lower cover 22A” (see FIG. 34(A)), and the lower cover 22 having the short skirt part 22S is referred to as “the lower cover 22B” (see FIG. 34(B)).

In the lower cover 22A, the skirt part 22S is long and a lower side of the skirt part 22S has the same height as a lower side of the under spacer 53. In other words, a lower side of the lower cover 22A contacts a virtual line Lv extended from the lower side of the under spacer 53. Accordingly, the under spacer 53 is indispensable to the hood 2 configured by the lower cover 22A. Accordingly, in a process of attaching the lower cover 22A, the under spacer 53 is arranged below the front grill 23 (see FIG. 35).

In the lower cover 22B, the skirt part 22S is short and a lower side of the skirt part 22S has the same height as a lower side of the front grill 23. In other words, a lower side of the lower cover 22B contacts a virtual line Lv extended from the front grill 23. Accordingly, the under spacer 53 is unnecessary for the hood 2 configured by the lower cover 22B. Accordingly, in a process of attaching the lower cover 22B, the under spacer 53 is not arranged below the front grill 23 (see FIG. 36).

According to the above, the upper cover 21 and the front grill 23 can be used in at least two models. In detail, in addition to the upper cover 21 and the front grill 23, the light units (24 and 25) can also be used in at least two models (see FIGS. 37A and 37B). Furthermore, the center pillar 51 and the side frame 52 constituting the hood 2 can also be used in at least two models naturally.

Next, characteristics of the hood 2 are explained.

As a first characteristic, the upper cover 21 and the front grill 23 can be used in at least two models by changing the length of the skirt part 22S of the lower cover 22 (see FIGS. 34A and 34B to 37A and 37B). Accordingly, the upper cover 21 and the front grill 23 can be used in at least two models, whereby quantity of production is increased and reduction of is expected (it is called mass production effect).

As the above, the upper cover 21 and the front grill 23 can be used in at least two models by changing the length of the skirt part 22S of the lower cover 22. Accordingly, by the mass production effect of the upper cover 21 and the front grill 23, the cost of the hood 2 can be reduced.

As a second characteristic, when the skirt part 22S is long, the under spacer 53 is arranged below the front grill 23. The lower side of the lower cover 22A contacts the virtual line Lv extended from the lower side of the under spacer 53 (see FIGS. 34 A and 34B). Accordingly, a height dimension of the hood 2 is increased, whereby the hood 2 is suitable for a model on which the large engine 12 is mounted.

As the above, when the skirt part 22S is long, the lower side of the lower cover 22 (22A) contacts the virtual line Lv extended from the lower side of the under spacer 53. Accordingly, the hood 2 can be used for the model on which the large engine 12 is mounted without spoiling appearance, and the upper cover 21 and the front grill 23 can be used in at least two models.

As a third characteristic, when the skirt part 22S is short, the under spacer 53 is not arranged below the front grill 23. The lower side of the lower cover 22B contacts the virtual line Lv extended from the lower side of the front grill 23 (see FIGS. 34A and 34B). Accordingly, a height dimension of the hood 2 is reduced, whereby the hood 2 is suitable for a model on which the small engine 12 is mounted.

As the above, when the skirt part 22S is short, the lower side of the lower cover 22 (22B) contacts the virtual line Lv extended from the lower side of the front grill 23. Accordingly, the hood 2 can be used for the model on which the small engine 12 is mounted without spoiling appearance, and the upper cover 21 and the front grill 23 can be used in at least two models.

As a fourth characteristic, in the under spacer 53, one or more through holes 53 h are provided (see FIGS. 35 and 37). Accordingly, the one or more through holes 53 h permit air to flow from the inside of the hood 2 to the outside or from the outside to the inside thereof.

As the above, in the under spacer 53, the one or more through holes 53 h are provided. Accordingly, in the hood 2, the under spacer 53 serves as serves as an air passage, whereby heat of the engine 12 is hard to be accumulated.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention can be used for an art of a hood and a tractor having the hood.

DESCRIPTION OF NOTATIONS

1 tractor

11 chassis frame

12 engine

13 transmission

14 front axle

15 rear axle

16 cabin

2 hood

21 upper cover

21 h opening

22 lower cover

22A lower cover

22B lower cover

22S skirt part

23 front grill

231 grill frame

232 metal mesh

24 high-beam light unit (light unit)

25 low-beam light unit (light unit)

26 air cut plate

27 side beam

28 gas spring

31 center mark

31R ridgeline

32 symbol mark

41 design panel

41 h through hole

51 center pillar

52 side frame

53 under spacer

53 h through hole

61 tip member

62 middle member

63 end member

631 center beam

64 support plate

65 hood hinge

66 weather strip

67 weather strip

68 weather strip

69 weather strip

Tr target route

r ridge 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A hood of a vehicle, the hood comprising: an upper cover; a center pillar coupled to a center portion of the upper cover at a front end of the upper cover; a front grill coupled to and distinct from the center pillar, the front grill having a first and second end; a first lower cover positioned adjacent to the first end of the front grill; a second lower cover positioned adjacent to the second end of the front grill; and a light unit coupled to the front grill.
 2. The hood of the vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising: a side frame attached to the center pillar; and each of the first and second lower covers attached to at least the upper cover and the side frame; and wherein the first lower cover is distinct from the second lower cover.
 3. The hood of the vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising: a middle member fixed to a reverse side of a middle part of the upper cover; an end member fixed to a reverse side of a rear end of the upper cover; a center beam distinct from the center pillar; and a hood hinge, and wherein the middle member is positioned between the front grill and the end member; wherein the center beam extends from the end member towards the front grill to connect the middle member to the end member, and wherein the hood hinge is attached to the end member and the center beam.
 4. The hood of the vehicle according to claim 3, further comprising: a weather strip, wherein the weather strip is attached to the end member and contacts an air cut plate arranged near the end member.
 5. The hood of the vehicle according to claim 3, further comprising: a support plate fixed to the reverse side of the rear end of the upper cover, the support plate distinct from the middle member; and where the upper cover includes a tip member at the center portion of the upper cover, the tip member configured to attach the center pillar to the upper cover.
 6. The hood of the vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising: a center mark disposed on an upper part of the upper cover, and wherein the center mark extends upward from the upper cover to define a ridgeline.
 7. The hood of the vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the upper cover includes a design panel that covers an opening defined by the upper cover, and wherein the center mark is coupled to the design panel.
 8. The hood according to claim 1, further comprising: a high-beam light unit coupled to the front grill; and a low-beam light unit coupled to the front grill, the low-beam light unit positioned below the high-beam light unit.
 9. The hood of the vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: an upper portion of the front grill is coupled to the center portion of the upper cover at the front end of the upper cover; and the upper cover includes a tip member coupled to a bottom side of the upper cover at the front end, the tip member configured to couple a central portion of the upper cover to the center pillar.
 10. The hood of the vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the front grill includes a front surface and a rear surface, the rear surface of the front grill coupled to a front surface of the center pillar.
 11. A tractor comprising: a hood comprising: a cover comprising a front end, a rear end, a top surface and a bottom surface, each of the top surface and the bottom surface extending from the front end to the rear end; a center pillar coupled to a center portion of the cover at the front end of the cover; a front grill coupled to the center pillar; a first lower cover positioned adjacent to the front grill; a second lower cover positioned adjacent to the front grill; an end member coupled to a bottom side of a rear end of the cover; a middle member coupled to a bottom side of a middle part of the cover, the middle member positioned between the front grill and the end member; a center beam extending from the end member towards the front grill and attaches to the middle member; and a light unit coupled to the front grill.
 12. The tractor according to claim 11, further comprising: an engine at least partially covered by the hood; at least one wheel coupled to the engine; and a steering mechanism configured to move the at least one wheel.
 13. The tractor according to claim 11, wherein the hood further comprises a hood hinge is hinge attached to the end member and the center beam.
 14. The tractor according to claim 13, wherein the hood further comprises a support plate fixed to the bottom surface of the rear end of the cover.
 15. The tractor according to claim 14, wherein the hood further comprises: a center mark disposed on the top surface of the cover; and wherein the center mark extends upward from the top surface of the cover to define a ridgeline.
 16. The tractor according to claim 15, wherein: the cover of the hood includes a design panel disposed in an opening defined by the cover; and where the center mark is coupled to the design panel.
 17. A hood comprising: a front grill; a center pillar attached to a center portion of the front grill; a cover comprising a first end and a second end, the cover coupled to the center pillar at the first end of the cover and extending laterally away from the front grill toward the second end; an end member fixed to a bottom side of the cover at the second end; and a hood hinge coupled to the end member, the hood hinge configured to rotate the hood relative to a vehicle; an air cut plate adjacent to the end member; and a weather strip; wherein: the weather strip is attached to the end member and configured to contact the air cut plate the air cut plate is disposed inside the hood at the second end of the cover; and the weather strip is configured to close a gap in the hood between the end member and the air cut plate.
 18. The hood according to claim 17, further comprising: at least one side frame coupled to the center pillar; and a lower cover, where a top portion of the lower cover is coupled to the cover and a front portion of the lower cover is coupled to the at least one side frame.
 19. The hood according to claim 17, further comprising: a center beam coupled to a center portion of the end member and extending toward the first end of the cover; and the hood hinge and center beam configured to rotate the hood toward a cabin of a vehicle. 